Development of gene delivery system using PLGA nanospheres

The development of nonviral vectors for the efficient and safe delivery to cells has long been awaited to facilitate gene therapy. Recently, many nonviral vectors modified with cationic lipids, cationic polymers, etc. have been reported. However, those nonviral vectors with cationic materials require improved stability, longer duration of gene expression, and reduced cytotoxicity. We successfully prepared mucoadhesive poly (lactide-co-glycolide) nanospheres (PLGA NS) by modifying the nanoparticulate surface with chitosan to improve mucosal peptide absorption after oral and pulmonary administration. Furthermore, we found that nucleic acid, which was not dispersed in the organic solvent, could be dispersed by forming a complex with cationic lipid. Using this phenomenon, polynucleic acids for gene therapy (plasmid DNA, antisense oligonucleotide, small interfering RNA, etc.) can be encapsulated into the matrix of the polymer particles with the emulsion solvent diffusion method. The advantages of this preparation method are its simple process and avoidance of an ultrasonication process for submicronization of particles. The resultant nanospheres show better cellular uptake and different gene therapeutic effects compared with conventional vectors due to their improved adherence to cells and sustained release of polynucleic acid in the cells. In conclusion, chitosan-coated PLGA NS can possibly be applied in nonviral vectors for gene therapy.